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Rust Belt Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CNC Set Up Operator

Van Wert, OH · On-site

$22.22 - $31.12/hr

CNC Set-up Operator Shift: 3rd/4th - Weekend shifts available Salary: $22.22 - $31.12/hour (Plus $1.50 shift premium and potential $15,000 sign-on bonus) Who we are We are a leading international ...

Field Engineer

Chippewa Lake, OH · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Field Service Engineer Shift: Standard Day Shift (Varies during travel and field service projects) Salary: $75,000 to $100,000 per year Who We Are We are an established, growing North American ...

Title: Technical Sales & Marketing Specialist Shift: First Shift Salary: $70,000 to $90,000, highly dependent on experience level, with a robust corporate benefits package Who we are: We are a ...

Quality Manager Shift: First Shift Salary: $100,000 - $120,000 per year Who we are We are a premier structural steel manufacturer located in Canton, OH, dedicated to producing high-quality fabricated ...

Title: Maintenance Technician Shift: 2nd 2pm-10pm , (M-F) Pay: $30-$35/hr (+/- depending on experience) Location: Austintown, OH Maintenance Technician Role: We are looking for an experienced ...

Title: Slitter Operator Shift: Full-Time, Monday - Friday, 6:00 AM - 2:30 PM (Overtime and Saturdays required as needed) Salary: $21 -$28 per hour, dependent on experience (plus OT) Slitter Operator ...

CNC Machinist

Pulaski, VA · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Machinist (Off Shift|Mon - Thurs|4p - 2a) $25-$28, $1.20 shift premium, $2.00 additional for Team Lead Reports to: Production Supervisor / Operations Manager Who we are A leading manufacturing ...

Injection Mold Operator (Molded Slabs & Press) Shift: Weekend Shift: 12 Hour Day Shifts, Friday-Sunday OR 1st or 3rd Shift M-F Salary: $22.50-$25.00 per hour Who We Are We are a stable and growing ...

Maintenance Director

Avon, OH · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Title: Maintenance Director Shift: Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (On-call weekend rotation 1 in 3) Salary : $70,000 - $80,000 per year (Depending on experience) Maintenance Director Role: The ...

Title: Custom Fabricator / Machine Builder Shift: 1st Shift | 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM Salary: $25.00 - $35.00 per hour based on experience Who we are: Our client is a premier industrial equipment ...

Mixer

Cleveland, OH

$20 - $25/hr

Chemical Mixer Shift: 1st Shift (7:30 AM - 4:00 PM) & 2nd Shift (2:00 PM - 11:00 PM) available Salary: $20 - $25 per hour, depending on experience, plus overtime opportunities Who we are We are a ...

Title: Maintenance Technician Shift: Full-time; 2nd shift available Salary: $30 - $35/hr. Pay is based on experience; shift differential of $2.00/hour for 2nd shifts, plus potential overtime and ...

Who we are We are a leading structural steel manufacturer located in Canton, OH, specializing in engineered pole structures for utility and infrastructure applications. Utility Detail Engineer Role ...

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Rust Belt information

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How much do rust belt jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for rust belt in the United States is $24.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $26.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges someone might face when working in the Rust Belt manufacturing sector?

Professionals in the Rust Belt manufacturing sector often encounter challenges such as adapting to new technologies, managing changes in production processes, and addressing workforce skill gaps. The region is known for its history of heavy industry, so workers may also face aging infrastructure and the need to implement modern safety standards. Collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive efficiency and support continuous improvement initiatives is common, and being adaptable to change is crucial for success.

What is the Rust Belt?

The Rust Belt refers to a region in the United States, primarily in the Northeast and Midwest, that was once known for its booming manufacturing industry. Over the past several decades, this area has experienced economic decline, population loss, and urban decay due to the outsourcing of manufacturing jobs and the decline of industries such as steel and automobile production. Cities like Detroit, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh are often considered part of the Rust Belt. The term 'rust' symbolizes the decay of the once-thriving factories. Today, there are efforts to revitalize these regions through technology, education, and new industries.

What is the difference between Rust Belt vs Steel Worker?

AspectRust BeltSteel Worker
Primary IndustryManufacturing and industrial regionsSteel production and fabrication
Work EnvironmentFactories, industrial sites, urban areasSteel mills, factories, heavy industrial settings
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, sometimes technical certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, apprenticeship programs
Employer UsageManufacturing companies, industrial plantsSteel mills, metal fabrication plants

Rust Belt refers to the industrial regions in the U.S. known for manufacturing, while Steel Worker specifically describes workers involved in steel production. Although both are linked to manufacturing, Rust Belt is a geographic and industry term, whereas Steel Worker is a job role within that industry. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify employment opportunities and industry focus in these areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Rust Belt worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a manufacturing or industrial worker in the Rust Belt, you need a solid understanding of mechanical processes, trade skills, and often a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with machinery, safety protocols, and industrial systems such as CNC machines or assembly lines is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help workers excel in fast-paced and evolving environments. These skills and qualities are critical for maintaining productivity, safety, and adaptability in the region’s industrial sectors.
More about Rust Belt jobs
What cities are hiring for Rust Belt jobs? Cities with the most Rust Belt job openings:
What states have the most Rust Belt jobs? States with the most job openings for Rust Belt jobs include:
Infographic showing various Rust Belt job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,119 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

CNC Set Up Operator

Rust Belt Recruiting

Van Wert, OH • On-site

$22.22 - $31.12/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

CNC Set-up Operator

Shift: 3rd/4th - Weekend shifts available

Salary: $22.22 - $31.12/hour (Plus $1.50 shift premium and potential $15,000 sign-on bonus)

Who we are

We are a leading international manufacturer with over 30 facilities across the U.S. servicing multiple industries

CNC Set-up Operator Role

The CNC Set-up Operator builds precision components that power critical global infrastructure and energy systems. This role exists to ensure the stable, high-quality production of machined parts through expert equipment setup and operation.

CNC Set-up Operator Responsibilities

• Set up and operate multiple CNC lathes according to production requirements

• Load raw materials into machines and initiate the machining process

• Monitor machine operations to detect malfunctions or errors

• Inspect finished products for defects to ensure they meet quality standards

• Use precision measuring tools like micrometers and calipers to verify dimensions

• Perform regular checks and maintenance to prevent equipment breakdowns

• Read and interpret engineering blueprints, technical drawings, and CAD designs

• Complete production and quality reports as required

• Follow all safety protocols and 5S guidelines to maintain a world-class environment

• Verify tooling and parameters to ensure stable unattended machine operation

CNC Set-up Operator Reporting Relationships

This position reports to the Production Supervisor or Manager and does not have any direct reports.

About You

• Hold a high school diploma or equivalent

• Possess previous experience as a CNC machine operator or in a similar role

• Demonstrate the ability to stand for extended periods on the production floor

• Maintain the physical capability to lift up to 50 lbs repetitively

• Pass required blueprint and math assessments during the interview process

• Show a history of longevity and internal promotion at previous employers

• Exhibit technical or vocational training in CNC machining (preferred)

• Demonstrate a commitment to safety and quality standards

Next Steps

If you are detail-oriented and a problem solver, we would like to hear from you.

Additional Information

Equal Opportunity Employer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected category.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions: This position requires standing for extended periods and the ability to lift up to 50 lbs repetitively. Work is performed in a manufacturing facility where employees must follow site-specific safety and 5S guidelines.

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